Forensic Analysis on the Cutting Edge New Methods for Trace Evidence Analysis

by Blackledge, Robert D.

• ISBN13: 9780471716440
• ISBN10: 0471716448
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2007-07-30
• Publisher: Wiley-Interscience

Summary

This title brings forensic scientists and chemists up-to-date on the latest instrumental methods for analysing trace evidence, including mass spectrometry, image analysis, DIOS-MS, ELISA characterization, statistical validation, and others. Illustrates comparative analysis of trace evidence by both old and new methods. Explains why some newer methods are superior to older, established methods. Includes chapters on analysis of DNA, ink, dyes, glitter, gun powder traces, condom trace evidence, footwear impressions, toolmark impressions, surveillance videos, glass particles, and dirt. Discusses applications such as mass spectrometry, image analysis, desorption-ionization on silicon mass spectrometry (DIOS-MS), ELISA characterization, and statistical validation.

Author Biography

Robert D. Blackledge, now retired, was the senior forensic chemist at the Naval Criminal Investigative Service Regional Forensic Laboratory in San Diego, California. He has a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the Citadel and a master's degree in chemistry from the University of Georgia. He serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Master of Forensic Sciences Program at National University, San Diego, California.

Table of Contents

Preface

Forword

All that Glitters IS GOLD

What Is Glitter?

The Ideal Contact Trace

Nearly Invisible

High Probability of Transfer and Retention

Highly Individualistic

Quickly and Easily Collected, Separated, and Concentrated

Easily Characterized

Computerized Database Capability

Characterization Methods

Color

Morphology

Size

Specific Gravity

Thickness

Cross-Section

Infrared Spectra

Raman Microspectroscopy

Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy

Glitter as Evidence in Criminal Cases

References

Forensic Analysis of Automotive Airbag Contact - Not Just a Bag of Hot Air

History of Airbags

How Do Airbags Work

Types of forensic evidence to look for

Airbag Case Reports and Examples

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Case Sample

Changes that are occurring

Final Discussion

References

Ink Analysis Using UV Laser Desorption Mass Spectrometry

Introduction

The Instrumentation

The Analyte Target Molecules

LDMS for the Analysis of Dyes in Pen Inks

Example

Example

Examples 3 and 4

Example

Example

Related Applications

LDMS Analyses That "Don't Work"

Conclusions

Acknowledgements

References

Condom Trace Evidence in Sexual Assaults: Recovery and Characterization

Introduction

Forensic Significance

Production, sale and use of condoms

Condom production

Examination for condom residue traces

Forensic evaluation of the substances and examinations

Case Studies

References

Latent Invisible Trace Evidence: Chemical Detection Strategies

Introduction

Latent Blood Stain Detection

Fingerprint Detection with Near Infrared Dyes

Pepper Spray Detection

Pepper Spray Detection using Near Infrared Fluorescent Dyes

Pepper Spray Detection Using Chemical Derivatization

References

Application of Cathodoluminescense to Forensic Examinations

Introduction

Theory

Luminescence Terminology

Electron Source

Cathodoluminesence

Limitations

Instrumentation

Electron Source

Microscope

Camera

Spectrometer

SEM-CL

Techniques and Forensic Considerations

Instrumental Conditions

Sample Preparation and Preservation

Image Collection

Spectral Collection

Luminescence Fading

Sample Alteration

Luminescent Minerals

Calcium Carbonate Group

Feldspar Group

Quartz

Accessory Minerals

Forensic Applications

Screening and Comparison

Identification

Authentication

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